Gap funding is a new and welcome addition to such non-credit certificate programs, since they are not eligible for federal financial aid. The IVCE Gap Tuition Program "bridges the funding gap" for students pursuing such important certificate training programs.

The program provides needs-based tuition assistance to eligible applicants to enable completion of these IVCE certificate training programs: Phlebotomist Certification; Pharmacy Technician Certification; Emergency Medical Technician/EMT; Nurse Aide Certification/CNA; Utility Technician; Machine Operator; Welding for Maintenance & Repair; Career Pipe Welding; HVAC Basic, and MIG (Wire) Welding. These are the current offerings that are gap-eligible at IVCE, with more being developed.

The Gap selection process includes an application to determine financial eligibility; an assessment, the National Career Readiness Certificate; program research and an interview with a person working in the student's desired career; a program interview with the Workforce Education Coordinator, and committee review for selection. It is recommended persons apply for gap tuition at least three weeks ahead of the start date of their training.

In addition, applicants must demonstrate the capacity to achieve the program outcomes: ability to complete the certificate and earn the credential, enter full-time employment, and retain full-time employment over time.

Each approved participant will receive financial assistance toward the selected training program. This may include tuition, books, required fees, and required tools and personal protective equipment. Program staff will contact each participant regularly to track progress toward completion of training and progress toward obtaining full-time employment. Participants will develop a job search plan and receive job search assistance, including resume development and critiquing, interviewing skills and job leads.

This is a great opportunity for persons looking for short-term, skill-development programs to improve their job prospects or to develop or upgrade their work-ready skills.

Lori Wildman is the IVCE Workforce Education Coordinator and can be reached 641-844-6987 or e-mail, lori.wildman@iavalley.edu.